EU confirms new sanctions if Russia refuses ceasefire – Zelenskyy
António Costa, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Ursula von der Leyen (Getty Images)
President of the European Council António Costa has confirmed that the EU will impose an 18th package of sanctions against Russia if it refuses to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
Zelenskyy shared details of a phone call with the President of the European Council. He informed António Costa about ongoing diplomatic efforts, and the two discussed possible next steps.
The Ukrainian president also thanked Costa for the EU's adoption of its 17th package of sanctions against Russia.
"Preparations for the next package are already underway, and it is crucial that it be even stronger," the head of state said. "It must include measures targeting the energy and banking sectors, as well as the shadow fleet — not only the vessels themselves but also the crews operating them. António confirmed that if Russia refuses a ceasefire, such sanctions will be applied."
Zelenskyy and Costa also discussed the opening of negotiation clusters for Ukraine's EU membership.
"It is important to find a solution that will allow the process to move forward. I am grateful for all efforts made toward this goal," the Ukrainian president added.
EU sanctions against Russia
On May 20, the European Union adopted its 17th package of sanctions against Russia, targeting maritime transport, oil traders, and their foreign enablers.
Specifically, 189 vessels from third countries were blacklisted, bringing the total number of designated ships to 342. These vessels are part of Russia's so-called shadow fleet and are used to transport Russian oil, often employing high-risk shipping practices or supporting the country's energy sector.
On the same day, the EU began preparing its 18th package of sanctions against Russia.
Earlier, the EU had warned that it would impose broad new sanctions if Russia refuses a ceasefire and peace negotiations with Ukraine.
